Things to Do in Riobamba, Ecuador

Riobamba, known as the 'Sultan of the Andes,' is a charming highland city in central Ecuador that serves as the capital of Chimborazo Province. Sitting at 2,754 meters above sea level, this historic colonial city offers breathtaking views of several snow-capped volcanoes, including the mighty Chimborazo, Ecuador's highest peak. The city's well-preserved architecture, vibrant indigenous markets, and position as a gateway to some of Ecuador's most spectacular natural attractions make it a compelling destination for travelers seeking authentic Andean experiences. Riobamba is perhaps best known as the starting point for the famous Devil's Nose train ride, one of the world's most dramatic railway journeys. Beyond this iconic attraction, the city offers rich cultural experiences through its traditional markets, colonial churches, and museums that showcase the region's indigenous heritage. The surrounding landscape provides excellent opportunities for mountaineering, hiking, and exploring traditional Andean communities, making Riobamba an ideal base for both cultural immersion and outdoor adventures in the heart of Ecuador's Avenue of the Volcanoes.

Top Things to Do in Riobamba

Devil's Nose Train Ride

Experience one of the world's most spectacular train journeys on the famous Nariz del Diablo railway. This engineering marvel zigzags down steep mountain slopes, offering breathtaking views of the Andes and deep gorges. The train descends over 500 meters in just 12 kilometers, creating an unforgettable adventure through dramatic Andean scenery.

Booking Tip: Book tickets in advance online or at Riobamba station, especially during high season (June-September). Tickets cost around $25-35 and trains run Tuesday-Sunday. Choose seats on the right side for the best views during descent.

Chimborazo National Park Excursion

Visit Ecuador's highest peak and the closest point on Earth to the sun due to the planet's equatorial bulge. The national park offers incredible high-altitude landscapes, vicuña spotting opportunities, and hiking trails suitable for various fitness levels. The first refuge at 4,800 meters provides stunning panoramic views without requiring technical climbing skills.

Booking Tip: Join a guided tour for $40-60 per person including transportation and guide, or rent a car for independence. Best visited in clear morning hours before clouds form. Bring warm clothing as temperatures can drop below freezing.

Guano Artisan Village Tour

Explore this traditional craft village famous for its high-quality leather goods, handwoven textiles, and artisan workshops. Visitors can watch skilled craftspeople create beautiful rugs, bags, and clothing using traditional techniques passed down through generations. The village also offers stunning views of Riobamba and surrounding volcanoes.

Booking Tip: Visit during weekdays for the best workshop demonstrations and lower prices. Most items cost 30-50% less than in Quito. Allow 3-4 hours for a complete visit including shopping time.

Saturday Market Experience

Immerse yourself in one of Ecuador's most authentic indigenous markets held every Saturday in Riobamba's city center. The market features an incredible variety of fresh produce, traditional textiles, handicrafts, and local foods. It's an excellent opportunity to interact with indigenous communities and experience authentic Andean culture.

Booking Tip: Arrive early (7-9 AM) for the best selection and most active atmosphere. Bring small bills for purchases and try local specialties like hornado and fritada. Markets typically wind down by 2 PM.

Volcano Avenue Scenic Drive

Take a spectacular drive along Ecuador's famous Avenue of the Volcanoes, with Riobamba serving as an excellent base for this adventure. The route offers views of multiple snow-capped peaks including Cotopaxi, Tungurahua, and Altar, along with traditional Andean villages and pastoral landscapes. Stop at various viewpoints and local communities along the way.

Booking Tip: Rent a car for maximum flexibility or join a full-day tour for $50-80 per person. Best visibility is typically in early morning hours. Pack layers as altitude and weather conditions vary significantly.

Getting There

Riobamba is easily accessible by bus from major Ecuadorian cities, with regular services from Quito (3.5 hours, $4-6), Guayaquil (4 hours, $6-8), and Cuenca (3 hours, $5-7). The city's main bus terminal, Terminal Terrestre, is located about 2 kilometers from the city center. For those preferring to drive, Riobamba is connected by well-maintained highways, particularly the Pan-American Highway. The nearest airport is in Quito, making the bus journey from the capital the most practical option for most travelers. Several tour companies also offer direct transportation from Quito as part of Devil's Nose train packages.

Getting Around

Riobamba's compact city center is easily walkable, with most attractions, restaurants, and hotels within a few blocks of the main square. Local buses and taxis provide affordable transportation to nearby attractions and the train station. Taxis within the city cost $1-3, while buses cost around $0.25. For exploring surrounding attractions like Chimborazo National Park or Guano village, renting a car provides the most flexibility, or joining organized tours is a convenient alternative. Many hotels can arrange transportation to the train station and other popular destinations.

Where to Stay

Historic City Center

Near Train Station

La Concepción

Maldonado

Veloz

San Alfonso

Food & Dining

Riobamba's dining scene reflects its highland location with hearty traditional dishes and fresh local ingredients. The city is famous for its hornado (roasted pork), fritada (fried pork), and excellent dairy products from the surrounding countryside. Local markets offer authentic comedores serving traditional meals for $2-4, while the city center has several restaurants offering both Ecuadorian and international cuisine for $6-12 per meal. Don't miss trying the local specialty of helado de paila (traditional ice cream) and fresh trout from nearby mountain streams. The Saturday market is an excellent place to sample street food and local delicacies.

When to Visit

The best time to visit Riobamba is during the dry season from June to September, when clear skies provide excellent visibility for volcano viewing and train rides. However, this highland city can be visited year-round, with each season offering different advantages. The wet season (October to May) brings afternoon showers but also lush green landscapes and fewer crowds. Morning hours typically offer the clearest views regardless of season, as clouds tend to form in the afternoons. Temperatures remain relatively stable year-round due to the equatorial location, though nights can be quite cold at this altitude.

Insider Tips

Book Devil's Nose train tickets online in advance, especially for weekend departures, as they often sell out during peak season

Bring warm clothing and layers as temperatures can vary dramatically between sunny and cloudy conditions, and nights are always cold at this altitude

Visit the Saturday market early in the morning for the most authentic experience and best selection, but also explore the smaller daily markets for a more intimate cultural experience

Things to Do in Riobamba